Traffic Noise Associated with Depression and Anxiety in Young Adults

A recent study published in Environmental Research highlights a significant link between traffic noise exposure and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety among young people. Conducted by researchers from the University of Oulu, Finland, this pioneering research examined long-term effects of traffic noise on children, adolescents, and young adults, revealing that higher noise levels can markedly increase mental health risks.

The study analyzed data from over 114,000 individuals born between 1987 and 1998 and living in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Researchers modeled annual average traffic noise at their residential addresses and tracked health outcomes over ten years, from age 8 to 21. They found that when traffic noise exceeds 53 decibels (dB)—the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit—the risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders rises sharply.

Interestingly, the risk is lowest when noise levels are between 45 and 50 dB, typically found on the quieter side of residential dwellings. However, once noise surpasses the 53 dB threshold, it becomes a significant psychological stressor, affecting young individuals regardless of which side of the residence they sleep on. The association was notably stronger among males and those whose parents had no history of mental health disorders.

The findings underscore the importance of environmental factors, such as traffic noise, in mental health. Dr. Anna Pulakka, the study’s senior author, emphasized that reducing exposure through measures such as quiet bedroom zones and decreased vehicle speeds could mitigate these risks. The research supports policies aimed at minimizing traffic noise exposure, highlighting the need for urban planning and transportation strategies that incorporate green spaces and soundproofing measures.

Environmental noise from various sources, including roads, railways, airports, and construction, remains a major environmental health concern in Europe, linked not only to auditory damage and sleep disturbances but also to broader neurological and cardiovascular issues. This study advances our understanding of how chronic noise exposure can contribute to mental health disorders, especially in vulnerable populations like young adults.

In conclusion, the research emphasizes that noise pollution is more than a nuisance—it is a public health risk that warrants immediate attention from policymakers and urban planners to foster healthier living environments for future generations.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-traffic-noise-linked-depression-anxiety.html